Denon AH-D5200 review – just headphones of a different color?

Vladimir Papazov 06/10/2018 8106

The Denon AH-D5200 didn't cause much excitement, but why ? The older model AH-D7200 was discussed on Russian-language forums long before it appeared in stores. The youngest - “well, the little brothers have come out, they’re already on sale...” and silence. But in vain.

Before that, I wrote detailed comparative reviews on classic Denons and modern ones. Therefore, there was an interest in comparing the Denon AH-D5200. I came specifically to the DrHead store on Novy Arbat.

Specifications Denon AH-D5200:

• Closed
• Dynamic
• Covering
• Detachable cable
• Cups tree
• Leather ear pads
• Speaker diameter 50 mm
• Partially soundproofed
• Maximum input power 1800 mW
• Weight 385 g

(characteristics of the AH-D7200 in parentheses for comparison)

• Resistance 24 ohms (25 ohms)
• Frequency range 5 - 40000 Hz (5 - 55000 Hz)
• Plug: 3.5 jack + 6.3 adapter (6.3 jack + 3.5 adapter)
• Cable length 1.2 m (3 m)

According to the characteristics, the resistance is slightly lower than that of the older D7200, instead of a 3 meter cable of 1.2 meters, the default jack is not thick 6.3, but thin 3.5, which indicates a greater predisposition of the AH-D5200 for use with a portable one. I wouldn’t say that the 7200 were very tight; they play with the player quite vigorously. And we also see a slightly reduced frequency range.

The material and design of the AH-D5200 and AH-D7200 headphones are identical . The difference is that the younger 5200 has a brown headband and ear pads, and darker ear cups. When you pick up a new product from Denon, your first thought is that these are the same Denon AH-D7200, just headphones of a different color.

Denon AH-D5200 – sound

To evaluate the sound of the headphones I used an Astell & Kern Kann player.

Music as always:

• 1. Rachmaninov's piano concertos.
• 2. Collection of classical music from Linn Rec (symphonic and operatic music).
• 3. Collection of Norwegian jazz.
• 4. Collection of rock music and jazz from Bowers & Wilkins [Wav]
• 5. A couple of mega heavy metal songs.
• 6. Knock-knock club electronics to test the pumping bass.

It was not possible to listen to Black Sabbat in DSD SACD-ISO, since Astell & Kern products (bastards) do not support this format.

Previously, I had the opportunity to leisurely listen to Denon’s flagship model AH-D7200 for a week at home. And now I have the junior AH-D5200 on my head. Immediately recognizable handwriting. Yes, that's them. Same typical as the flagship. They play interestingly, deliciously, with their own taste characteristics, conveying the dense atmosphere of rock clubs and jazz cafes.

• The upper frequencies are quite detailed and legible, but do not become harsh. The brass of the cymbals sounds weighty, the strings of the guitars strum beautifully, the saxophone howls, but without hysterics. The highs do not splash out with long aftertones. They arise at the right moment and quickly fade away at the right moment. This creates a clear idea of ​​their location in space.

• Mid frequencies have some tint. From this classic standard is not their genre. Here again the headphones distort the piano and the symphony orchestra sounds strange. But Led Zeppelin rocks incomparably.

• The low frequencies were of particular interest to me after several reviews that the older AH-D7200 had no bass at all. I listened to the AH-D5200, since they are similar, and later I listened to the older ones too. Therefore, further I will write about both of them at once: The lower frequencies are well developed, the bass is deep and textured, in sufficient quantities. On rock and heavy music, the AH-D5200 headphones deliver a decent amount of drive and there is no shortage of bass. Denon cope well even with the very heavy genres of Death and Deathcore, dumping a ton of hacks on the listener. “However, hello and goodbye,” the headphones said as they switched to club music. What's happened? When I started listening to the “clubby trance butz-butz” style, the bass suddenly remained in its place. It is still deep and in sufficient quantity, but it does not pump, there is no wave that would make the head sway to the rhythm and the heels start dancing. Partly it may be in the stage; the Denon AH-D7200 develops the stage well in depth, and the bass seems to fly at us from there. At the very head, invisible breakwaters soften the blow a little. This effect provides clarity to the midrange. The bass does not absorb the entire musical space, but remains in a strictly designated place for it. Fans of pumping electronics would be better off taking a closer look at DJ headphones that don’t create deep, delicate scenes, but pump up solid bass. For rock music, the AH-D5200 has the bass measured out like on a pharmacy scale – exactly the right amount. Headphones, both junior and senior, can safely be included in the list of “best full-size headphones for rock music”, not in first place, but somewhere there.

To be honest, I could not find any obvious, fundamental differences in the sound of the Denon AH-D5200 from the AH-D7200 . Perhaps if I listened to both models at home for a week, comparing them alternately with each other, I could identify the nuances that distinguish their sound. But after 20 minutes of acquaintance, albeit leisurely, I only came to the conclusion that the AH-D5200 are the same flagships, but cheaper, a little better for a portable device due to the short cable with a thin jack and -1 Ohm in resistance. 99% just headphones of a different color.

Construction and design

Visually, the new product practically replicates the flagship AH-D7200. These are also full-size headphones with large round cups and double-sided fasteners. The housing rims, holders and hinge mechanisms are made from high quality die-cast aluminum. The use of such material made it possible to achieve not only a spectacular appearance and durability of the device, but also significantly reduced the weight of the headphones. The model weighs 385 g - not so much for a gadget with 50 mm drivers.

Convex bowls with flat “cuts” are made entirely of solid zebrawood. This tree species has enviable strength, and received its name because of its unusual texture. Zebrawood is used to make handles and bodies of expensive musical instruments, as well as, significantly, inserts for billiard cues. The density of wood, according to the manufacturer, has a positive effect on the sound capabilities of the new product - a solid acoustic chamber prevents the chaotic spread of vibrations and resonances. The bowls have a noble brown color - matching the material of the ear pads and headband. Company logos are located on the outer surfaces of the cases.

Thick ear pads and hoop padding are made of soft and durable genuine leather. In both cases, there's a generous layer of memory foam hidden underneath the outer material - and if the AH-D7200 is anything to go by, it should offer amazing comfort and ergonomics. The headband upholstery is stitched on the outer sides with neat symmetrical seams.

Fastening elements and hinge parts are made in streamlined shapes using bevels and chamfers. The bowls rotate both vertically and horizontally, but the AH-D5200 does not have a folding design, as is typical for models for home use. The basis of the sliding mechanism is two rounded guides with clear marks, providing a fixed “step” of adjustment. On the side of the hoop and the fastening structure there are striking aluminum parts. The stereo channel designations are engraved on their reverse sides.

On the edges of both bowls, in the area of ​​the metal rims, there are 2.5 mm audio jacks - inside they are indicated by the standard colors of stereo ports. The headphones come with a high-quality cable with textile winding. At the end of the wire there is a plug in the form of a 3.5 mm jack, on which an adapter to a 6.3 mm jack is attached out of the box - this is a hint: the headphones are intended for use in conjunction with a high-quality audio card or amplifier.

Denon AH-D7200 + Sennheiser HDVD800 combine + balanced Kimber Cable 4-pin

As a bonus, I’ll write about an excellent and incredibly surprising combination that I was able to listen to: Denon AH-D7200 + Sennheiser HDVD800 combine + balanced Kimber Cable 4-pin . The German combine sounds a little dry, restrained in emotions, and the Danons have the taste of rock ears. But their joint brainchild is an amazing sound. Denon 7200 suddenly begin to play classics tolerably, becoming more academic and correct in the transmission of timbres and mids. This does not mean that they can be recommended specifically for classics and they also do not become references, but they still take a big step in this direction.

Amplitude-frequency response

A difference of 6 dB means a twofold difference in volume. For example, if instead of one speaker you turn on two, the sound pressure level will be 6 dB higher. If instead of one you turn on four speakers, then by 12 dB. If instead of six speakers you turn on three, the level will drop by 6 dB.

Ergonomic comfort

Ergonomic design for use. The AH-D5200 has a universal fit and is lightweight enough to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

With minimal lateral pressure and soft leather memory foam ear pads, the Denon AH-D5200 is easy to use - listen to as much music as you want.

Building on Denon's heritage of over 50 years of headphone engineering and design, the AH-D5200 features superior quality along with a Zebrawood housing. Soft, faux leather complements the organic style of the wood, combining handcrafted design with audiophile-level sound.

Sound and Application

Denon advertise the AH-D5200 by saying its sound reproduction brings the acoustic liveliness of a concert hall to your ears, with every detail able to be heard. This corresponds well to my first impression of the headphones. I was particularly impressed by the high-frequency reproduction of these headphones. Even more brilliant than the Denon AH-D1200, its reproduction seems even more open. The sound always remains silky with treble.

However, the headphones also deliver rich and powerful signals in the bass range. In EDM productions, however, the basses have to be reduced here and there as they would otherwise become too prominent. In the sub-bass range, the headphones show that they are not brought to their knees by the typical Roland TR-808 sounds used in urban music and rap productions. The AH-D5200 really shines with music genres with natural sounds, such as soul, funk and jazz. This is where these Denon headphones can really play to their strengths.

Similar to its little brother, the AH-D5200's mids are also extremely transparent and rich in detail. However, due to the contouring of its frequency response, it is also less suitable for rock and metal productions. Guitar sounds move into the foreground far too much for my listening taste, which affects the overall perception of vocals and speech intelligibility. Apart from this point, the headphones inspire with a great dynamic, an impressive transient reproduction and a wide stereo field. All these aspects are especially important when it comes to listening to classical music.

With ears on the way out

The Denon AH-D1200 is not much similar in appearance to flagships, and even in that unusual “a la cappuccino” finish that you see in the photo. They are much more compact and lighter, the earcups are much less bulky and are attached to the headband using different mechanics, which allows you to fold the headphones into a miniature case. Included is a thin detachable cable with a microphone headset and a volume/call remote control.

However, in this portable model, the headband arc is made in the most competent and reliable way, in my opinion - it is solid and completely lined with soft material. An additional degree of freedom is given to the cups by enclosing hangers. This AH-D1200 repeats the design of the top models. But the main thing is that even in such compact cases with rather soft, tight-fitting ear pads (they are covered with leatherette and actually provide enhanced insulation from external noise), the engineers managed to introduce solid 50-mm speakers - they can be seen through the acoustically transparent mesh. The headphones themselves are closer to the over-ear type than to the enveloping type, and the membranes, of course, are not as unique as those of expensive models, but according to the manufacturer, they are optimized for the most modern Hi-Res Audio standards.

There is still ongoing debate among music lovers about whether headphones require warming up. If you just opened the box of the AH-D1200, you'll know the answer quickly. In the sound of completely “zero” headphones, there is a lack of “meat”; in the middle, brass “copper” stands out with bright, careless strokes, and on the tops there is a slight steel tint. Without turning off the music, put your headphones aside to “warm up” and do other things. I guarantee that after 20 - 30 minutes the same music tracks will sound different. First of all, the metallic shades on the treble almost disappear. Then the tightness in the lows goes away - the bass becomes dense and deep enough (but without redundancy). The most significant and pleasing change is in the main page. The overtones and main timbres are distinguished so much better that the sound appears alive, moving and textured, which, in fact, draws you into listening.

When connecting to a smartphone, the first thing I note is that the AH-D1200 sound louder than one would expect from headphones with average sensitivity. The bass register is neat, the midbass and lower mids are smoothed out, but everything higher in the spectrum is transmitted very culturally (let me remind you: from a smartphone with its cheap amplifier). The AH-D1200 has almost no coloring overtones characteristic of closed models. An even more encouraging sign of high class is the natural reproduction of analog noise in old recordings (a primitive digital path in combination with inexpensive drivers can distort it beyond recognition). The airiness of the highest frequencies and the level of fine detail are also surprising. These headphones will quickly teach their owner to compile playlists from FLAC files, so as not to hear in all details the intrusive artifacts of compressed formats.

I don't know anything more capricious than the telephone output of my own laptop. With headphones alone it seems loud but non-linear. With others it’s the opposite. It can throw out mud in the midrange, or it can add flabby bass or treble. In short, it is outrageous in every way. With the AH-D1200, the illusion appeared that the audio path built into the computer had finally stopped spoiling the sound. The bass register sounded incomparably clearer, and the midbass region was better filled. If unpleasant shades remain, it is only in the mid-high frequencies. The sensitivity of the AH-D1200, however, was barely enough, but I would not call the resulting dynamics weak - drums were reproduced very clearly, explosive musical contrasts were not blurred...

It happens that the sensitivity of “street” headphone models is so high that it becomes unpleasant to listen to music from high-quality amplifiers. This sin is not common with the new Denon product. You switch to the telephone output of an integrated circuit or a portable DAC amplifier and you understand - kindred spirits! Fast dynamics and cool punch are immediately evident, but the main thing is that all this is supported by even more piquant tonal and spatial intelligibility. Courage does not destroy plasticity, detail does not turn into sound garbage. These are the kind of headphones, and even with a modest price tag, that can rightfully be called all-rounders.

And very briefly about tonal balance. The AH-D1200 is quite smooth and without any dissonant accents. This simply does not give rise to complaints.

Connection

1.Can be used wirelessly. Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

Wireless devices give users greater freedom of movement when listening.

2.Bluetooth version

Unknown. Help us, offer a price. (Denon AH-D7200)

Unknown. Help us, offer a price. (Philips SHQ5200)

Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard that allows data to be transferred between devices in close proximity using shortwave ultra high frequency radio waves. Newer versions provide faster data transfer.

3.has a 3.5 mm mini-jack Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

The standard 3.5mm jack is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.

4.Has Bluetooth aptX Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

Bluetooth aptX is an audio codec used to wirelessly transmit high-resolution audio from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Developed by Qualcomm, aptX audio technology includes variants such as aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, and aptX Adaptive.

5.maximum radius (Bluetooth) bluetooth

Unknown. Help us, offer a price. (Denon AH-D7200)

Unknown. Help us, offer a price. (Philips SHQ5200)

The device can connect to another device over a long distance using Bluetooth/IR.

6.Supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

Wi-Fi 6, released in 2022, is based on the IEEE 802.11ax wireless networking standard. Designed to operate across all frequency bands from 1 to 6 GHz, it offers faster data speeds and lower latency than previous Wi-Fi technologies.

7.802.11ac WiFi interface Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

802.11ac wireless operates at 5 GHz as well as 2.4 GHz (dual-band WiFi). Offers higher data transfer speeds, increased reliability and more optimal power consumption principles. Provides benefits for games and HD video streams.

8.802.11n WiFi interface Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

802.11n is a wireless standard released in 2009. Faster data transfer speeds, increased security compared to its predecessors a, b and g.

9.support for Bluetooth pairing using NFC Denon AH-D7200

Philips SHQ5200

This device supports Bluetooth pairing, using NFC technology to communicate with other devices via Bluetooth. You can quickly pair devices without entering a code by simply placing one device next to another.

Interior Tech, Functionality and Handling

Dynamically driven 50 mm drivers operate the AH-D5200. Their free-floating bearings (Denon refers to these as the “Free Edge” version) are designed to ensure that sound is crystal-clear in delivery and not impaired by distortion. The drivers provide an immense audio transmission range from 5 to 40,000 Hz. Its low impedance makes the AH-D5200 a candidate for use with mobile devices beyond hi-fi use.

The enclosed cable has a total length of 3 meters, which is certainly acceptable for hi-fi use. Both ends of it splice are plugged into the earpieces on either side. This eliminates the need to run the cable over the headband. The fabric-covered copper cable increases the overall weight of the headphones by 70 grams to 445 grams. The headphones are also equipped with copper cable. This weight is well balanced by the soft headband padding and medium contact pressure. What's more, the memory foam of the ergonomic ear cushions will ensure audio enthusiasts who use the AH-D5200 for long periods won't find them uncomfortable. Another highlight is the size adjustment function of the headband. It also offers a memory function, meaning you don't need to adjust the headband every time you put it on. The joints with which the earpieces can be adjusted don't impede wearing comfort, while the vertical tilting of the headband can also be rotated horizontally. All in all, this leads to a very pleasant wearing experience with the AH-D5200.

Savings 16+

The AH-D5200 seems to be generally made in the image and likeness of the most expensive models, although it has a quarter lower price tag. At first I didn’t find any visual differences at all. The design is exactly the same. Large, turned wooden ear cups fit snugly onto the metal rims of the housings, which, in turn, are fitted with the familiar asymmetrical ear pads made of pliable memory foam. Their bolsters are just as plump, the covering has the same cut (maybe the material will feel different to the touch, but I didn’t have the opportunity to compare), even the protective textile insert inside differs not one iota in texture. And all this will be connected by an identical headband on paired steel rods. Well, aren't they twins?

The differences, which I won’t include the different color design and the lack of diamond-shaped stitching on the inside of the arc, come down to just three details.

In the AH-D7200, the cups are carved from a special type of walnut, and for models in a lower class - from zebrawood. I believe that the choice in favor of such an exotic (and hardly cheap) variety was made not only because of the attractive striped texture of the material, but also for practical reasons - due to its greater hardness and density, this wood is more durable and better able to withstand impacts.

The reduction in price affected the cable. The description for the flagships emphasizes that the three-meter cord in a textile sheath is made of 7N purity copper, but in our case nothing is said about the quality of the conductor (by the way, it is also not equipped with an adapter from a quarter-inch “jack” to a thin one).

The third difference is the drivers. Branded 50mm Free Edge membranes are pressed for the AH-D5200 without nanotechnology and, apparently, they are not as weightless as those of the top models - the operating range extends “only” to 40 kHz, and not to 55. But they are not inferior in power - you can supply up to 1.8 watts!

Since the models are designed for stationary audio systems, I immediately start listening by connecting to the Denon PMA-2500NE integrated circuit/DAC. Headphones require more time for the drivers to break in. At first, the bass band seems restrained, and the middle register seems slightly suppressed. But after an hour the balance becomes better and this progress then continues for several more hours. Compared to the AH-D1200, the entire musical range is transmitted with greater transparency and information content. You begin to discern a mass of subtle tonal shades. Images in an imaginary scene are brought into focus with better clarity in these headphones. The AH-D5200 doesn’t have any trace of spatial constriction or “shell” painting, which, by the way, is how mid-range models look like their older brothers. There are differences in the tonal balance, but they are so unobtrusive and insignificant that they do not interfere with the overall good impression - the models can easily compete in their price class with the most correct neutral closed-back headphones.

Most likely, the AH-D5200 is slightly inferior to the flagships in harmonic resolution (the uncertainty is explained only by the impossibility of direct comparison under the same conditions). At one time, the older models literally amazed me with their talent for incredibly freely and expressively revealing the smallest vocal and instrumental overtones, while the new models played the same material in a less “tasty” way (working, however, with a different amplifier). But be that as it may, I didn’t have any quibbles of a purely technical nature. You can also rely on these headphones as a guide.

Just for fun, I tried the AH-D5200 with portable equipment, using a pre-stocked adapter for a thin jack. To be honest, nothing good came of the smartphone. The dynamics were so weakened that it even alarmed me - the declared sensitivity of this model was higher than that of the AH-D1200, but reality proved the opposite. However, this effect could have arisen due to the fact that the mobile phone simply did not pull out the bass properly and made the tonal balance too light and light.

But as soon as I moved the plug into the Macbook Air, I’ll be honest, my jaw dropped – my computer had never sounded so powerfully, purely and at the same time emotionally through its own output! Which, if you think about it, is also not surprising - it’s just that the audio path of the Apple laptop has finally found the most suitable and light load.

And when such a happy coincidence happens, why not save on an external “camping” amplifier? This results in a double benefit.